The 12th day of Christmas

This year Ellie was really into counting down the 12 days after Christmas. The first day of Christmas was for all the presents and going to Aunt Katie's. The second day of Christmas was for opening stockings. The third day of Christmas was for Grammas. The fifth day of Christmas was for opening presents from Connie. I can no longer remember 6 through 11, but I guarantee she labeled them something special based on what she thought was the best thing we did each day - such as going to visit people or play something special. It was really meticulous and cute at the same time.

It just so happened that we also figured out we are taking the kids to Disney this winter. They didn't know yet. So we decided we would tell them on the 12th day of Christmas.

I put together a last present where I wrapped 3 of their toys in tissue papers. I let each of them pick out an item and told them they needed to guess what their BIG Christmas present was. Ellie went first and picked out the big dolphin. Max went second and picked a Mickey Mouse. Clair went last and got a model airplane.

Let the guessing begin....

Ellie's first guess was close. She asked if we were going to Swim with the dolphins. I have to say this was an exciting guess and is surely something she has remembered since she was very young and will not let go of. I will need to take her before she goes to college.

Max said something about going on a plane and I said yes! I told them it was a vacation.

Clair was clueless and just stood there watching, and nearly backing into the Christmas tree.

Ellie's second guess was pretty right on - The Marine Animal hospital to see Winter and Hope! She announces screaming. She was so excited.

Max yells - "Tomorrow??!!!??"

When I proclaim it's 33 days off, he nearly breaks down in tears in a pile on the floor, likely for the 50th time during the day. Max can't see too far in advance.

Anyway, this was a fun way to tell them and to end our Christmas holiday. We are all looking forward to the trip and counting down the days. Max has stopped throwing a fit each time we talk about how far off it is. Clair still has no clue what she is in for during this trip. It's going to be interesting.